Ep 6. Send in the Clowns

In the captivating episode, "Send in the Clowns," of the long-running British detective drama, Midsomer Murders, the quaint and picturesque county of Midsomer once again becomes the haunting backdrop for a mysterious and deadly series of events. In this thrilling sixth episode of Season 20, the seemingly idyllic world of a traveling circus is turned upside down when a shocking murder takes place under the big top.

The episode opens to a magnificent circus tent standing tall against the rolling hills of Midsomer. Circus goers eagerly await the start of the show, filled with a sense of wonder, excitement, and anticipation. However, their enthusiasm quickly transforms into horror when the beloved circus clown, Poppy Button, is tragically found dead in his dressing room.

Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby (Neil Dudgeon) and his trusty partner, DS Jamie Winter (Nick Hendrix), are immediately called to the scene to investigate this most peculiar and disturbing crime. As the duo begins their inquiries, they soon discover that the world of the circus is not as innocent and joyful as it seems.

The circus, led by the charismatic and enigmatic Ringmaster, Leo Thorne (portrayed by special guest-star, Ade Edmondson), is filled with a diverse cast of strange and flamboyant performers. Each one harbors their own secrets, making the investigation all the more challenging for Barnaby and Winter. Among the suspects are a tightrope walker with a troubled past, a lion tamer with a fierce reputation, and a mysterious contortionist with an uncanny ability to conceal her true intentions.

As the detectives dig deeper into the twisted world of the circus, they encounter a web of hidden rivalries, long-standing grudges, and personal vendettas, all hidden behind the colorful facade of the performers’ extravagant acts. The more they uncover, the more sinister the truth becomes, revealing a dark underbelly lurking beneath the seemingly innocent and magical allure of the circus.

While investigating the murder, Barnaby and Winter also face personal challenges. Barnaby's wife, Sarah (Fiona Dolman), finds herself caught up in a local controversy that threatens to impact their lives. Meanwhile, Winter grapples with his own emotional turmoil as he faces the consequences of a difficult decision.

As the investigation reaches its climax, tensions rise within the close-knit circus community. Amidst breathtaking performances and heart-stopping suspense, Barnaby and Winter must race against time to unmask the killer before they strike again. With a suspect list as long as a clown's tie, they must unravel the complex web of lies and deceit to reveal the identity of Poppy Button's murderer.

"Send in the Clowns" delivers all the trademark elements that have made Midsomer Murders a beloved and enduring television series, including picturesque English landscapes, intriguing characters, and a puzzle-like plot that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With its mix of drama, humor, and nail-biting suspense, this episode promises to be a thrilling and captivating addition to the iconic detective series.

Fans of Midsomer Murders will relish the masterful storytelling, intriguing characters, and the unexpected twists and turns that have made the show a staple of British television for over two decades. So prepare to be swept away into the intriguing world of the circus as the renowned Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby and his loyal sidekick DS Winter unravel the dark secrets behind the murder in "Send in the Clowns."